This conversation delves into the concept of gap years in Australia, exploring the diverse experiences of young people who take a year off between school and further education or work. Journalist Kirsty McKenzie shares insights from her feature in Outback Magazine, highlighting the motivations, benefits, and challenges faced by gappers, including financial considerations, personal growth, and the impact on future studies. The discussion also touches on the emerging trend of 'golden gappers' – older individuals seeking new experiences after retirement. Overall, the podcast emphasises the value of gap years in shaping young people's lives and careers.

Key takeaways:
Many Australian school leavers are taking gap years.
Gap years are not just for school leavers; older individuals are also participating.
Attitude is more important than background for gap year success.
Rural students find gap years particularly appealing for financial reasons.
Research shows gap years have little effect on degree completion.
Students return from gap years more motivated and focused.
The gap year industry is growing, with many businesses offering programs.
Volunteering during a gap year can be costly.
Career opportunities in agriculture and hospitality are abundant for gappers.
Golden gappers are redefining the concept of taking a break later in life.

This conversation delves into the concept of gap years in Australia, exploring the diverse experiences of young people who take a year off between school and further education or work. Journalist Kirsty McKenzie shares insights from her feature in Outback Magazine, highlighting the motivations, benefits, and challenges faced by gappers, including financial considerations, personal growth, and the impact on future studies. The discussion also touches on the emerging trend of 'golden gappers' &ndash; older individuals seeking new experiences after retirement. Overall, the podcast emphasises the value of gap years in shaping young people's lives and careers.
Key takeaways:
<ul>
<li>Many Australian school leavers are taking gap years.</li>
<li>Gap years are not just for school leavers; older individuals are also participating.</li>
<li>Attitude is more important than background for gap year success.</li>
<li>Rural students find gap years particularly appealing for financial reasons.</li>
<li>Research shows gap years have little effect on degree completion.</li>
<li>Students return from gap years more motivated and focused.</li>
<li>The gap year industry is growing, with many businesses offering programs.</li>
<li>Volunteering during a gap year can be costly.</li>
<li>Career opportunities in agriculture and hospitality are abundant for gappers.</li>
<li>Golden gappers are redefining the concept of taking a break later in life.</li>
</ul>

R.M.Williams OUTBACK reangles its authentic, experienced lens on rural and regional Australia into the audio space. The hugely successful OUTBACK magazine has been published for 25 years and knows the Australian bush like nobody else. This podcast is inspired by the informative writing and spectacular photography in the magazine but is not limited to this content. Explore Australian news, events, stations, nature, art, people, history, gear, tracks, travel, pubs, towns and much more.

R.M.Williams OUTBACK reangles its authentic, experienced lens on rural and regional Australia into the audio space. The hugely successful OUTBACK magazine has been published for 25 years and knows the Australian bush like nobody else. This podcast is inspired by the informative writing and spectacular photography in the magazine but is not limited to this content. Explore Australian news, events, stations, nature, art, people, history, gear, tracks, travel, pubs, towns and much more.

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